Paul - double-lung recipient, VIC

With less than 15 per cent lung capacity, Paul  gasped for every breath. Now, Paul is alive and well thanks to a life-saving organ donation.

Paul was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, meaning his lungs were steadily turning into what felt like concrete and he needed to carry an oxygen machine at all times.

“I was facing my own death as I was degrading so quickly,” says Paul. “Every time I moved, I erupted into horrific suffocation fits. Things like exposure to hot steam or cold air closed-up my airways” he said.

“I relied on my partner to dress me, cook for me, and take me to medical appointments. I couldn’t even shower without help. I was totally helpless,” says Paul.

The Alfred’s transplant team told Paul he needed a double lung transplant if he was to live beyond the end of the year.

But like the 1,800 others in Australia on the list for a life-saving organ transplant, Paul was warned it could be a lengthy wait.

“I was terrified. I didn’t know if I was going to survive the operation. I didn’t know if the transplant would work, or if my body would reject the donated lungs. I was scared I would die before I received a donation,” he said.

The good news arrived when Paul’s doctor told him a set of matched lungs had become available and he would have the transplant surgery. 

Since his transplant, Paul has no signs of rejection, and his doctors are pleased with his recovery. He has colour back in his face and has returned to working on his rural property.

He has taken up bike riding and even picked up his flute after being unable to use it for so many years.

“I often think about the donor and their family. I can’t imagine the pain they must have gone through losing a loved one. They gave me the most precious gift I have ever received,” he said.

“I wish more people were like that family. We need more people to register as an organ donor. It saved my life and now I’m able to enjoy things I’ve never been able to do before.”